Research
Academic projects with a practical focus
PARLIAMENT
- Welfare Reform Bill and Financial Privilege: the Lords have both the constitutional power, and good cause, to assert themselves »
PROJECTS
- The Impact of Parliament on Legislation
- Legislative Committees at Westminster: The Case for Reform
- The Changing Role of the House of Lords Post-1999
- See the latest government defeat in the House of Lords
Since its establishment the Constitution Unit has taken a keen interest in
parliament and parliamentary reform, often seeking to learn lessons for the
UK parliament from similar institutions overseas. We have published
particularly widely on the House of Lords and its reform, but also on the
House of Commons and the implications of devolution for the Westminster
parliament. Our parliaments work is co-ordinated by Meg Russell.
RESEARCH ARCHIVE
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
- January 2012 update: Michael Gove's ICO vs Cabinet Office quandary continues, plus Osama, Obama and animal testing
- International focus: Japan
- Project report: Town Hall Transparency? The Impact of the Freedom of Information Act on English Local Government (Dec 2011, pdf)
PROJECTS
The Constitution Unit is the leading academic centre in the UK specialising in Freedom of Information (FOI) and Data Protection (DP). Our purpose is to conduct cutting edge research in the UK and contribute to the development of evidence-based policy and practice. We also provide quality consultancy and advice, and organise informative conferences and seminars. Our FOI and DP work is led by Ben Worthy.
RESEARCH ARCHIVE
JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE
The Politics of Judicial Independence in Britain’s Changing Constitution: 3-year AHRC research project examining the independence and accountability of the British judiciary. Watch the launch event with Lord Philips of Worth Matravers, Head of the Supreme Court.
COALITION GOVERNMENT
Coalition Government in the UK: monitoring how the coalition is working through elite interviews and authorised by the Prime Minster and Deputy Prime Minister. Keep up to date with our weekly updates.
Read the interim report »
RESEARCH ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
